US History Repeated

On this episode we are joined by Anna Danzinger-Halperin, Director of the Center for Women's History at New York Historical, and Tessa Bangs, Mellon Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow in Women's History and Public History. NY Historical has a new exhibition titled,  "Revolutionary Women." Our conversation explores women's experiences during the Revolutionary War era, examining how different women's lives varied based on their social status, ethnicity, and location.  There is an upcoming exhibit at the NY Historical which covers five historical figures and runs from May 29th  - October 25, 2026. We have the link in our show notes below.    There is always more to learn! Jimmy & Jean   Revolutionary Women | The New York Historical  NY Historical is full of incredible exhibits and often runs a variety of lectures. For additional resources on teaching this topic we highly recommend their resources below: The American Revolution - Women & the American Story 

This podcast focuses on one of the more difficult people to understanmd in US History, Benedict Arnold.  Benedict Arnold was one of George Washington's most trusted Generals before he chose to defect to the British side. We are joined by Author Stephen Brumwell, Author of Turncoat: Benedict Arnold and the Crisis of American Liberty.  We get into the Why, How, and Who influenced his decision to become the person most synonymous with TREASON and betrayal in the history of The United States.  There is always more to learn! Jimmy & Jean Link to Turncoat and Stephen Brumwell's website: Amazon.com: Turncoat: Benedict Arnold and the Crisis of American Liberty: 9780300210996: Brumwell, Stephen: Books brumwellhistory.com\

This podcast continues our celebrating America 250! In this episode of US History Repeated, Jeananne is joined by Michael Hensinger, Senior Manager of K-12 Education at the Museum of The American Revolution in Philadelphia. We take you inside the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia—one of the premier destinations for understanding the origins, impact, and the legacy of the American Revolution. Through immersive exhibits, powerful storytelling, and rare artifacts, the museum brings the Revolutionary era to life. There is always more to learn! Jimmy & Jean We encourage you to visit their website, amrevmuseum.org and the additional resources located on their website: Virtual Tour: https://museumvirtualtour.org/  Season of Independence Interactive: https://www.amrevmuseum.org/interactives/season-of-independence  WWLTV Virtual Exhibit: https://www.amrevmuseum.org/virtualexhibits/when-women-lost-the-vote-a-revolutionary-story  TDJ landing page: https://www.amrevmuseum.org/exhibits/the-declaration-s-journey  Teacher resource guide landing page: https://www.amrevmuseum.org/learn-and-explore/for-students-and-educators/resources-opportunities-for-educators/teacher-resource-guides  Washington’s War Tent Collections Page: https://www.amrevmuseum.org/collection/washington-s-war-tent?queryID=9f7d056a899099d40c5594935d3833f6&index=global  Virtual Tour of Washington's Field Headquarters (replica of the tent): https://www.amrevmuseum.org/virtual-tour-of-washington-s-field-headquarters

This is part two of our podcast on The First Ladies of the United States (FLOTUS) We waited for March to release these in Women's History Month In part two, we will cover the First Ladies from 1900 to 2026. We are again joined by Andrew Och, known as The First Ladies Man for our special two-part series on The First Ladies. Andrew Och was a producer of First Ladies: Influence and Image on C-SPAN. He has traveled the country researching the lives and legacies of these extraordinary women - from Martha Washington to Melania Trump. He is the author of two books on The First Ladies. Unusual for Their Time: On the Road With America's First Ladies Volumes 1 and 2. On this episode, Andrew shares the stories, leadership and lasting impact of the women who have served as First Lady of The United States of America. His books are available for purchase through his website and on Amazon.  The First Ladies Man There is always more to learn! Jimmy & Jean  

In honor of Women's History Month, we wanted to do a little something with our First Ladies, the wives of our Presidents. In part one, we will cover: Martha Washington Abigail Adams Dolly Madison Luisa Adams Abagail Fillmore Mary Todd Lincoln Frances Cleveland We are joined by Andrew Och, known as The First Ladies Man for a special two-part series on The First Ladies. Andrew Och was a producer of First Ladies: Influence and Image on C-SPAN. He has traveled the country researching the lives and legacies of these extraordinary women - from Martha Washington to Melania Trump. He is the author of two books on The First Ladies. Unusual for Their Time: On the Road With America's First Ladies Volumes 1 and 2. On this episode, Andrew shares the stories, leadership and lasting impact of the women who have served as First Lady of The United States of America. His books are available for purchase through his website and on Amazon.  The First Ladies Man There is always more to learn! Jimmy & Jean  

This podcast is part of our America 250 highlights and takea a deeper dive into Thomas Jefferson.  While we did do a podcast on his presidency, this episode focuses on his life, influences, the Declaration of Indelendence, and his Monticello estate.  We are joined by Steve Light, the Vice President for Education and guest experience at Monticello.   There are some links below to take a look at after the podcast if you wish to learn more about Monticello. There is always more to learn! Talk to you soon, Jimmy & Jean Monticello.org offers an incredible variety of resources for students, educators, and lifelong learners. From virtual programming and book discussions to classroom materials and immersive field trip opportunities, their work brings Jefferson’s world and the broader story of early America to life in meaningful ways. We highly recommend exploring the links below and taking time to dive into all they offer. And if you ever have the opportunity to visit Monticello in person, it is truly a must-see. I recently had the opportunity to visit Monticello. Walking the grounds, taking in the breathtaking views, and hearing the powerful, moving stories of all who lived and labored there creates a profound experience. There is something deeply intimate about stepping inside someone’s home — you leave with a richer, more nuanced understanding of who Jefferson was and the complex legacy he left behind. If you value thoughtful, honest history and educational outreach, please consider making a donation to support Monticello’s ongoing mission.   Monticello | Thomas Jefferson's Home Monticello | Declaration Book Club Monticello | School Field Trips 

In this episode of US History Repeated, we continue our discussion with Pulitzer Prize–winning author David Garrow and just what Dr King's rise to national prominence cost him—and what his unfinished work still asks of us. In Part Two, of our discussion, we explore how the public perception of King changed as his message grew more challenging, why his outspoken opposition to the Vietnam War cost him political allies, and how his vision expanded to include economic justice through the Poor People’s Campaign. We’ll also confront the final days of his life and his assassination. Our thanks to historian and Pulitzer Prize–winning author David Garrow for helping us bring depth, nuance, and historical clarity to this conversation.  David J. Garrow is a distinguished historian and Pulitzer Prize–winning author best known for Bearing the Cross: Martin Luther King, Jr., and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, a landmark biography that remains one of the most authoritative studies of Dr. King and the modern Civil Rights Movement.   To see all of his published works please visit his website   David J Garrow | Professor, Author   There is always more to learn! Jimmy & Jean

In this episode of US History Repeated, we’ve traced the early life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.—from the influences that shaped him, to the emergence of his leadership, and through the pivotal campaigns that helped bring about the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act. These victories are often remembered as moments of triumph, but they were also the beginning of a far more complicated chapter in King’s life and in the nation’s story. There was a lot to cover and we decided to break this one into two parts. In Part Two, we’ll step into that complexity. We’ll explore how the public perception of King changed as his message grew more challenging, why his outspoken opposition to the Vietnam War cost him political allies, and how his vision expanded to include economic justice through the Poor People’s Campaign. We’ll also confront the final days of his life and his assassination. Our thanks to historian and Pulitzer Prize–winning author David Garrow for helping us bring depth, nuance, and historical clarity to this conversation. If today’s episode showed how Dr. King rose to national prominence, the next will ask what it cost him—and what his unfinished work still asks of us. David J. Garrow is a distinguished historian and Pulitzer Prize–winning author best known for Bearing the Cross: Martin Luther King, Jr., and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, a landmark biography that remains one of the most authoritative studies of Dr. King and the modern Civil Rights Movement.   To see all of his published works please visit his website   David J Garrow | Professor, Author   There is always more to learn! Jimmy & Jean

Tghis episode is about the history of the US Capitol Building, and is part of our #US250 podcast specials.  Jeananne interviews Steve Livengood, Chief Guide & Historian at the US Capitol Historical Society.  We provide great detail on the design, building, rebuilding, and how it operates from its beginnings to this very day. The US Capitol Building is the home of the legislative branch, was once the home of The US Supreme Court and has been the backdrop of some of the most important discussions and debates over issues that have shaped our nation.    As promised, here are some of the links we mention in this podcast: Links Become a Member Individual Membership / Support USCHS | U.S. Capitol Historical Society   Donate to The USCHS DonorPerfect Form   Educational Videos We The People Constitution Program: Video | USCHS   Teacher Resources We The People Constitution Program   Webinars Lectures + Webinars / United States Capitol History | USCHS   There is always more to learn! -JImmy & Jean  

This podcast is on the life and work of Thurgood Marshall. Most of us know Thurgood Marshall as the first black justice of the US Supreme Court, but we do not know is the road he took to get into that role.  We discuss how he bacame a lawyer, the many influences in his life, his time at the NAACP, and how he came to be a Supreme Court Justice. Take a listen, there is always more to learn, Jimmy & Jean

We pivot back to our coverage of the civil rights movement and in this episode we focus our attention to the Montgomery Bus Boycott & Rosa Parks. We are joined by Donna Beisel who is the Director of Museum Operations at The Rosa Parks Museum in Montgomery, Alabama. This episode discusses themes related to racial violence, discrimination, and sexual assault, including references to cases Rosa Parks worked on during her time with the NAACP. These topics may be sensitive for some listeners. Please take care while listening and feel free to pause or step away if needed. For your reference this is discussed from the 15 min - 17 minute mark.   There is always more to lear - talk to you soon,  Jimmy & Jean

We have been going mainly chronologically thus far, and with 2026 being the 250th anniversary of our country, we decided to mix in some different types of episodes to recognize where we have been, along with reminders of how we got there, and what we need to do to keep it going!   Today's podcast title, It Starts with Us: Keeping Democracy Alive for the Next 250 Years, delves into the responsibilities we have as citizens to stay educated and remember that the power is in the hands of the people. We assign that power to our elected officials in order for them to represent US! Today, Jeananne is joined by Ira Chaleff   Ira and Jeananne discuss open dialogue with people who have differing views, not being closed off to other opinions, and more importantly, educating yourself with the viewpoints from the political left, center, and right.   There is always more to learn, talk to you soon! -Jimmy & Jean

Our podcast on the legislative branch and civic engagement focuses on the interactions between politicians and their constituents.  Do you know who your congressman is? Do you know who your two state senators are? Do you know how to reach them? Well we will get into all of this and more! Jeananne is joined by Bradford Fitch, the former CEO of the Congressional Management Foundation. He has spent 40 years in Washington as a journalist, congressional aide, consultant, college instructor, Internet entrepreneur, and writer/researcher. He is a leading trainer of citizen-advocates in the U.S., with more than 50,000 Americans participating in one of his programs. His most recent book was just published, Citizen's Handbook for Influencing Elected Officials: Engaging with Congress and State Capitols and can be found on Amazon with the link above.    Take a listen as there is always more to learn!   -Jimmy & Jean Additional Guest information: BradfordFitch.com Find Your Members in the U.S. Congress | Congress.gov | Library of Congress

In this podcast we continue our coverage of the civil rights movement with a discussion on Brown vs. The Board of Education.  Most of us know Brown v. Board of Education as the Supreme Court decision that struck down racial segregation in public schools. But what’s often forgotten is that this landmark case has deep roots in a place that, nearly a century earlier, was a battleground over the issue of slavery. That place? Kansas. As students of history, you may have heard the phrase “Bleeding Kansas." This wasn’t just a metaphor. From 1854 to 1859, the Kansas Territory became a war zone as pro-slavery and anti-slavery settlers fought over whether the state would enter the Union as free or slave-holding state. In an earlier episode, we discussed John Brown and his infamous raid on Harpers Ferry. And here's a little-known fact: Kansas had four competing constitutions during its territorial years. Yes — four! Each one representing a different vision of the state’s future. The debate over slavery wasn’t just national — it was hyperlocal, fought at the ballot box, in homes, and with rifles. When Kansas finally entered the Union in 1861, it did so as a free state — just months before the Civil War began. And a century later, it would once again become a frontline in the battle for civil rights, this time in the classrooms of Topeka. On this episode, our resident history expert, Jeananne Xenakis is joined by Ms. Fatimah Purvis, who serves as the Education Specialist at Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park in Topeka,  Kansas.

We continue our conversation on The Civil Rights Movement and in this podcast we delve into the story of Emmett Till. Emmett Till was kidnapped, tortured, and murdered. We delve into his story and how it was a catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement here in The United States.  We are joined by Devery Anderson, author of Emmett Till: The Murder That Shocked the World and Propelled the Civil Rights Movement Emmett Till: The Murder That Shocked the World and Propelled the Civil Rights Movement (Race, Rhetoric, and Media Series): Anderson, Devery S., Bond, Julian: 9781496814777: Amazon.com: Books There is always more to learn! Talk to you soon, Jimmy & Jean  

With this podcast we begin our coverage of the Civil Rights Movement here in the United States. There will be multiple podcasts, which Jeananne will introduce some topics later on in this one.  To understand the importance of The Civil Rights Movement and why it was such an uphill battle to get legislation passed to protect voting rights, to desegregate schools and public facilities and allow for equal protection under the law, we have to go back to the era of Reconstruction and look at the journey from slavery to segregation.  We reference content from earlier podcasts, so if you want to take a refresher, go back and listen to our podcasts on: The Civil War (Parts 1 & 2) Reconstruction / Presidency of Andrew Johnson Booker T. Washington Plessy v. Ferguson & The Emergence of Segregation in the US Take a listen, there is always more to learn! -Jimmy & Jean

Season 6 is here, and with it comes an exciting opportunity to dive deep into the past of one of America's most iconic landmarks. The White House may just seem like a building, but its rich and layered history reveals so much more—untold stories of decisions that shaped the world, whispered conversations, and personal moments of the nation's leaders. Stewart McLaurin, White House Historical Association President, joins us for an incredible discussion on the history of The White House as we gear up to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of The United States of America. Imagine the secrets held within its walls—the lives of those who constructed it, the leaders who governed from its rooms, and the historic choices that forever altered the course of the country. Too often, these pivotal moments go unnoticed, lost to time. But there's a solution: Tune in to our newest discussion, led by our resident history expert, Jeananne Xenakis and Stewart McLaurin, White House Historical Association President. Together, they'll unpack "The History Of The White House," and explore the legacy of The White House.  If you're visiting Washington, D.C., make time for a visit to The White House Historical Association’s new immersive exhibit. Help preserve history and ensure future generations can experience its grandeur—visit their website to support their vital mission.  The People's House: A White House Experience: https://thepeopleshouse.org/  The White House Historical Association: https://www.whitehousehistory.org/

Well we all know the TV today, and there are a few hundred channels that we all gave access to today. We dive into the invention, the adoption by the population, the programming explosion, and some popular shows that became staples of the 1950s.    Shows like I Love Lucy, Leave it to Beaver, The Honeymooners and more entertained the masses at the end of their work days.  The televsion became a must have in every home.  With the popularity of the programming came the inevitable insurgence of advertisers. It was a whole new media to use to get in front of the consumers. As you listen to this podcast, think how similar a time we live in today with the advent of social media, digital ads, and inflencer marketing!   There is always more to learn, talk to you soon!   Jimmy & Jean

This podcast covers the polio outbreak in the 1950s, along with the subsequent vaccine invented by Jonas Salk.  We delve into the spread, the treatments, as well as the eventual vaccine created by Mr. Jonas Salk.  There is always more to learn, talk to you soon!   Jimmy & Jean

With this podcast, we complete our coverage of President Dwight D. Eisenhower.  This is episode is the final of three parts. This episode delves into the foreign and domestic agendas of the Eisenhower presidency. We get into U2 spy planes, Russia and the Cold War, happenings in the Middle East with Iran and Egypt, along with issues with the Suez Canal. So many things to discuss in this IKE finale! We are joined by Dr Todd Arrington, Director of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Museum & Library. If you would like to take a look at their website and take a visit, here is the link! Home | Eisenhower Presidential Library   There is always more to learn, talk to you soon! Jimmy & Jean

We continue our coverage of General & eventually President Dwight D. Eisenhower.  This is episode is the second of three parts. This episode begins with the story of the election of 1952, how he came to be the nominee, and the 8 years of his presidency, along with the impact that President Eisenhower and his wife, Mamie. Take a look at the fudge recipe we promised from Mamie! Mamie Eisenhower's Chocolate Fudge Recipe We are joined by Dr Todd Arrington, Director of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Museum & Library. If you would like to take a look at their website and take a visit, here is the link! Home | Eisenhower Presidential Library   There is always more to learn, talk to you soon! Jimmy & Jean

We begin our coverage of General & eventually President Dwight D. Eisenhower.  We will be braking these up into three parts. This first part will cover Eisenhower's earlier years at West Point, his military appointments, and all the way up to, but not including the election of 1952.   We are joined by Dr Todd Arrington, Director of the Dwight D Eisenhower Museum & Library. If you would like to take a look at their website and take a visit, here is the link! Home | Eisenhower Presidential Library   There is always more to learn, talk to you soon! Jimmy & Jean

Our 1950's podcast has a bit of everything. The 1950s can be called the decade of conformity. There is tremendous growth. Population is BOOMING, hence the term "Baby Boomers" came into vogue.  The roles of women changed, going from aspirations of Rosie the Riviter in the work force to stay at home mother and homemaker. Television, movies, and other media, all showcased the idealized images of what family life should be.  Pop culture gave us rock n roll, "The King", Chuck Berry, and others.  Toys like The Barbie Doll, Mr Potato Head, and PlayDoh became very popular.    President Eisenhower championed projects related to infrastructure. The suburbs were born, and roads, highways, bridges, and tunnel projects were all undertaken.  This episode has it all, along with a little fun at the end.    There is always more to learn! -Jimmy & Jean

So in order to recap how we got to what became known as the "McCarthy era", we need to take a look at recent events.  Many events occurred before Senator Joseph McCarthy's rise to national fame. There was first the breakdown of the wartime alliance with the Soviet Union, and President Harry S. Truman signed an executive order in 1947 to screen federal employees for possible association with organizations deemed "totalitarian, fascist, communist, or subversive", or potentially advocating "to alter the form of Government of the United States by unconstitutional means." Then, you had Czechoslovak coup by the Communist Party of Czechoslovakia which heightened concern in the West about Communist parties seizing power and the possibility of subversion. In 1949, a high-level State Department official was convicted of perjury in a case of espionage, and the Soviet Union tested a nuclear bomb. The Korean War started the next year, significantly raising tensions and fears of impending communist upheavals in the United States. In a speech in February 1950, McCarthy claimed to have a list of members of the Communist Party USA working in the State Department, which attracted substantial press attention, and the term McCarthyism was published for the first time in late March of that year in The Christian Science Monitor, along with a political cartoon by Herblock in The Washington Post.   So there is the quick intro, and Jeananne will pick up all of the details of McCarthyism and the Second Red Scare.   there is always more to learn! Jimmy & Jean

Welcome to episode number 102. This one is on the Korean War.    Jean and I discuss the events leading up to the war. The Korean War is a byproduct of post WWII events and how land was divided up after the war.  We dig into the 38th parallel, communist influences vs US influence, and the beginnings of war yet again.  We delve into what becomes the first of many proxy wars between the US and Russia, as well as the conclusion of the war, which believe it or not, is still not technically over.   Take a listen, and let us know what you think.  There is always more to learn! -Jimmy & Jean

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) serves as a fundamental institution in shaping international relations, particularly between NATO and the West. Established in the aftermath of World War II, NATO was formed to ensure collective defense and maintain peace among its member states. Its creation responded to the urgent need for a stable and secure geopolitical environment in a world recovering from the devastation of war.  Its member countries agreed to mutual defense commitments, meaning an attack against one would be considered an attack against all. This principle aimed to deter aggression and promote a united front against any adversary. As the alliance grew, NATO adapted its objectives to address new global challenges beyond traditional military threats, such as terrorism and cyber warfare.   Take a listen to what Jimmy and Jean have to say about the formation and evolution of NATO. There is always more to learn!   -Jimmy & Jean

Thank you for checking in to our podcast on The Truman Doctrine and the Marshall Plan. While both the Marshall Plan and the Truman Doctrine were US policies aimed at containing the spread of communism during the Cold War, there are a number of key differences.  The main difference is that the Truman Doctrine focused on providing military and political support to countries threatened by communist takeover, while the Marshall Plan offered large-scale economic aid to rebuild war-torn Western Europe after World War II, aiming to prevent communist influence by stabilizing their economies.   For all the details, take a listen and know that there is always more to learn!   -Jimmy & Jean  

In our podcast on the history of US Troop Entertainment we take a deep dive into the launching of the USO, celebrity visits to the troops, the mobilization of US mail to get the letters to our troops as well as Jeep Shows.    Our Special guest in this podcast is author Robert B. O'Connor, who wrote Jeep Show: A Trouper at the Battle of the Bulge To take a peek at Robert's book, please visit this link to his book on Amazon.    There is always more to learn! -Jimmy & Jean

We conclude our coverage of the presidency of Harry S. Truman with part three here in this podcast.  We are again joined by Mr Mark Adams from the Harry S. Truman Presidential Museum & Library.  Foreign Policy wise, throughout his two terms as President, Truman has one development after another. The start of the Cold War, the rebuilding of Europe – not just borders, rebuilding cities and reviving the economy through programs like the Truman Doctrine and The Marshall Plan and of course The Korean War which we will do a separate episode on. Truman also shocks US officials and world leaders with another shocking decision. What was it? Take a listen and find out! We do not want to put too much into the description, and hope you enjoy the podcast. There is always more to learn, Jimmy & Jean

We continue our coverage of Harry S. Truman, which is in three parts.  In part two we are joined by Mr Mark Adams from the Harry S. Truman Presidential Museum & Library.  We discuss his acclimation to The Presidency after suddenly being thrust into the role, the decisions to drop "The Bomb" in hopes of ending the war, as well as post WWII politics and the desired influence of democracy on the globe.  We do not want to put too much into the description, and hope you enjoy the podcast There is always more to learn, Jimmy & Jean

We begin our coverage of Harry S. Truman, which will be done over three parts. Part one will discuss the early life and the beginnings ofhis political career.  Truman was born in Lamar Missouri on May 8, 1884. He was named after his uncle Harrison and was given the middle initial of S to honor both of his grandfathers. Back in 1905, Truman joined the Missouri National Guard. Knowing his poor eye sight might prevent him from being accepted, he memorized the eye chart! When the US got involved in WWI in 1917, Truman reenlisted, he was 33 years old. He served in France and is the only US President who saw military action in WWI. In 1922, Truman began his time in public office.  We do not want to put too much into the description, and hope you enjoy the podcast There is always more to learn, Jimmy & Jean

  This podcast continues our discussion on post WWI & WWII impact on the Middle East. Understanding the historical backdrop of conflicts in the region is essential to comprehending the persistent struggle for land, identity, and sovereignty in Israel and Palestine. To begin to understand what is happening today, we once again have to go back in time to WWI.  The collapse of the Ottoman Empire triggered a major reshuffling of territorial claims in the Middle East. The Ottoman Empire ruled the region since the 1500s. Once again, we’re talking about The Sykes-Picot Agreement of 1916, a secret pact between Britain and France, that divided Ottoman territories into spheres of influence, disregarding the region's complex ethnic and religious identities.   If you want to know why battles persist to this very day, take a listen to this podcast and learn some of the details! There is always more to learn, talk to you soon. -Jimmy & Jean

In this podcast we look at WWI and WWII and how they set the stage for the modern Middle East. Not just the geopolitical landscape. The countries that exist today and where their borders are but also a lot of the conflicts that exist within this region and with the relationships that Middle eastern countries have with the western world. One of those conflicts that can trace its roots back to the end of WWI is the Israeli and Palestinian conflict.   We are joined by Miles Spencer, one of the authors of A Line In The Sand. (We added the link to Amazon if you would like to take a look. ) There is always more to learn, take a quick listen!   _Jimmy & Jean

Hi, welccome to another podcast of US History Repeated with Jimmy and Jean. This podcast is all about the formation of The United Nations.  We discuss why it was created and replaced The League of Nations, as well as the role it was created to play in the world.  We identify and discuss the 6 components that make up the organization and explain the functions of each. They are: The General Assembly The Security Council The Economic & Social Council The Trusteeship Council The International Court of Justice The Secretariat We will also delve into current events and the more recent issues that The United Nations has been involved with, like the Russian invation of Ukraine, and the conflict in Gaza between Israel and Hamas.    There is always more to learn! -Jimmy & Jean

In this podcast, we discuss the aftermath of World War II in Europe. We dig into the Nuremberg Trials, the division of Germany, displaced individuals, and touch on the creation of Israel. We discuss Operation Paperclip, where 1600 German scientists were relocated and their assisting in the US space program, as well as several other important items post WWII. We don;t like giving too much away in the description and as always, there is always more to learn!   -Jimmy & Jean

After the surrender of Japan, the work to rebuild Japan and cement the country as one of the most important US allies in the Pacific began. Japan became strategically important after the fall of China to Communism. Japan being a democracy became of the utmost importance.  The US occupation of Japan lasted from Japan’s surrender on Sept. 2, 1945 until 1952 when the treaty of San Francisco went into effect in April of that year. We discuss the creation of a new Japanese constitution and government and demilitarization of Japan. We also discuss the aftermath of the atomic bombs being dropped and the experiences of the survivors, who became known as Hibakusha. Their illnesses were feared, and they carried stigmas that came with what will become known as radiation poisoning.    There is always more to learn! -Jimmy & Jean

Kicking off our fifth season with a blast as we discuss the Manhattan Project, the creation of the Atomic Bomb, and the end of World War Two. We get into the details behind the development of the bombs, the race to be first, make references to the recent movie, Oppenheimer, and how the United States decided where and how to drop the bombs on Japan.  The eventually brough about the end of World War Two.  All the details are here in this podcast, take a listen, tell your friends, and know that there is always more to learn! Talk to you soon,  Jimmy & Jean

This podcasts focuses on the battles with Japan in the Pacific. The Pacific Theater was the largest theater of the war. The Japanese referred to the Pacific Theaters as the Greater East Asia War. The Pacific theater presented an entirely different strategic landscape.  The US was joined by Great Britain & China in defeating the empire of Japan. British troops consisted of a large number of colonial troops from their territories. Troops from India, Burma (present day Mayanmar, Malaya now known as Malaysia, Fiji, Tonga; Troops from Australia, New Zealand and Canada played a pivotal role as well. Japan attacked the American territories of Hawaii, the Philippines, Guam, and Wake Island and the British territories of Malaya, Singapore, and Hong Kong.   Stretching over vast oceanic expanses, it was characterized by its remote, far-flung island territories, which required lengthy and complex naval and air operations. We do not want to ruin all of Jeananne's comments, so take a listen and share with your friends!   There is always more to learn, ] Jimmy & Jean

Today we are going to be talking about The Holocaust and what the United States, the Allies and people around the world knew about what was happening.   Today we are joined by a special guest, Rebecca Erbelding, a historian, an author, educator and archivist at The National Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. Rebecca Erbelding is the author of the book, Rescue Board: The Untold Story of America’s Efforts to Save the Jews of Europe    Rebecca and Jeananne have a conversation about the goings on in the concentration camps run by the Nazis. Take a listen and hear what they have to say.   There is always more to learn, talk to you soon!   Jimmy and Jean

This podcast covers World War Two as it rages on in Europe.  We discuss the goings on in Europe at the time, and we dig into the Allied Strategy, the switching of sides and U.S. alignment with The Soviets.   On the homefront, in The U.S. we cover the contributions of Black Americans, women's contributions during the war, rationing, victory gardens, and more.    We also discuss how technology evolved because of the war. This included major changes on land, at sea, and in the skies above!   We go right up to the end of the war in Europe, and boy does Jeananne go into a lot of detail. In fact, we go right to May 8 1945, called VE Day. Almost exactly 79 years ago to the day we are releasing this podcast! There is always more to learn, talk to you soon! Jimmy & Jean

This podcast covers the Allied invasion at Normandy. It was the largest and most complex amphibious invasion in history. The actual date of the invasion was pushed back a number of times due to changes in the plan.  Hundreds of thousands of soldiers and a half a million military vehicles would need to be brought to the beaches at Normanday. As early as the 1930s, the US military began looking for ways to safely bring troops from ships to beaches. A shipbuilder in New Orleans named Andrew Jackson Higgins modified one of his boats to meet the US military’s specifications. It became known as the Higgins boat. These boats were a game changer. It allowed Allied troops to get to shore. This is why the US WWII museum is located in New Orleans. The area became essential to the war industry and the success of the war.    We do not want to spoil the rest of the podcast in the description, so dig in and take a listen!   Jimmy & Jean

Part three of our coverage of Japanese Internment during World War Two finds Jeananne continuing her interview with Angela Sutton, an Interpretative Ranger at Tule lake, one of the most infamous of the incarceration centers to get inside knowledge and more details of what went on in the camp. We get many details and a few stories, including first hand accounts retold by Ms. Sutton, as well as descriptions of the camp itself.  Jeananne then goes into what happened to the detainees after the camps closed. Japanese Americans were given $25 and a one-way train ticket to go and re-establish their lives.  A Supreme Court case which challenged the Constitutionality of Executive Order 9066 and Japanese Incarceration camps was Korematsu v The United States. More than 40 years after the war’s end, President Ronald Reagan signed into law the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, which apologized to still-living Japanese Americans who had been held in the camps and ordered restitution of $20,000.  In 1998, Fred Korematsu was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Bill Clinton. After the terrorist attack on Sept. 11, 2001 when laws were passed that limited people’s civil liberties, once again Fred Korematsu spoke out. He died on March 30, 2005. Listen to this podcast on how this went down and what exactly was involved. There is always more to learn, talk to y'all soon! Jimmy & Jean

Part two of our coverage of Japanese Internment during World War Two finds Jeananne interviewing Angela Sutton, an Interpretative Ranger at Tule lake, one of the most infamous of the incarceration centers to get inside knowledge and more details of what went on in the camp. On January 14, 1942, FDR issued Executive Order 2537 which required non-U.S. citizens from World War II-enemy countries—Italy, Germany and Japan—to register with the United States Department of Justice. They were then issued a Certificate of Identification for Aliens of Enemy Nationality. Then came Executive Order 9066. This granted the secretary of war and his commanders the power “to prescribe military areas in such places and of such extent as he or the appropriate Military Commander may determine, from which any or all persons may be excluded.” There was no specific individuals or locations listed in the order. It was broad and left up to interpretation. It was quickly applied to just about the entire Japanese American population on the West Coast.  The War Relocation Board was created.    Listen to this podcast on how this went down and what exactly was involved. There is always more to learn, talk to y'all soon! Jimmy & Jean

After the attack on Pearl Harbor – political debate began about the need to protect the country against another attack from the Japanese, the fear of espionage, and racism all led to the eventual passage of a series of executive orders. Prior to the forced removal from the West Coast, assets were frozen, and the FBI led by J. Edgar Hoover had compiled a list of about 1500 people of Japanese ancestry that the FBI believed needed to be watched. These individuals were arrested the day after the attack. Many of them remained detained for the duration of the war. In addition, On January 14, 1942, FDR issued Executive Order 2537 which required non-U.S. citizens from World War II-enemy countries—Italy, Germany and Japan—to register with the United States Department of Justice. They were then issued a Certificate of Identification for Aliens of Enemy Nationality. Then came Executive Order 9066. This granted the secretary of war and his commanders the power “to prescribe military areas in such places and of such extent as he or the appropriate Military Commander may determine, from which any or all persons may be excluded.” There was no specific individuals or locations listed in the order. It was broad and left up to interpretation. It was quickly applied to just about the entire Japanese American population on the West Coast.  The War Relocation Board was created.    Listen to this podcast on how this went down and what exactly was involved. There is always more to learn, talk to y'all soon! Jimmy & Jean  

Why did Japan attack the US at Pearl Harbor? It’s important to first consider the history between Japan and the US.  Political relations between the two countries have a complicated past. Unlike it’s Pacific neighbor, China, Japan had been successful in isolating itself from the Western world.  Japan was building an empire and by 1905, they had just that. With industrialization comes the need for resources in the form of raw materials.  A nation can get those resources via trade or by force. Japan had plans for the entire pacific and this was a threat to the U.S. interests in the region.  U.S. embargos and reluctance of U.S. banks to fund Japanese businesses caused great tension.    Listen to Jimmy & Jean and get all the details of what happened, why it happened, and how this began World War Two for the Unites States.   there is always more to learn, Jimmy & Jean

Today we begin our long anticipated coverage of World War Two. Now, this being a US History Podcast, we are not going to delve into the granular details of the beginnings of the war in Europe, but we do give a general sense of the goings on that began the conflict. We then really discuss the US Policy of neutrality at the time. So, German blitzkreigs and expansion into neighboring lands, followed by heading into Poland, then France. Once Germany atatcks the Soviet Union though, they have to fight a war on two fronts.  Meanwhile US neutrality means zero involvement, then that evolves into becoming a supplier to The Allies. This manages to keep the US out of the war, at least for this podcast.  There is always more to learn, Jimmy & Jean #ww2 #wwii

This is a USHR first with a podcast specifically on a First Lady. The longest sitting First Lady, Eleanor Roosevelt was very involved in her husband's presidency. We get into all of the below and then some.  She held regular press conferences as First Lady in The White House and only allowed female reporters as they were barred from the President’s press conferences. Roosevelt began a syndicated newspaper column, called “My Day.” She was a supporter of Civil Rights. In 1943, she joined the NAACP. She Visited the troops overseas during WWII and would wear her red cross uniform.  In 1945, Eleanor Roosevelt was appointed by President Harry S. Truman to the first United Nations delegation, the only woman among the delegates.   There is always more to learn, talk to you soon! -Jimmy and Jean

Part 2 of our coverage of the Presidency of Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) continues.  We continue the conversation between Jeananne and Jeffery Urbin of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.  There is always more to learn, talk to you soon! Jimmy & Jean   #FDR #NewDeal

When FDR came into the presidency he promised to act swiftly in order to help the nation face the dark realities of the moment. FDR wasted no time in implementing his plan for economic recovery, which would come to be known as the New Deal. When we talk of the New Deal we often link it to the 3 Rs ( Relief, Reform & Recovery).  He implemented various programs, such as the Civilian Conservation Corps and the Federal Emergency Relief Administration, which aimed to create jobs and provide financial assistance to those struggling the most. One of the most significant pieces of legislation passed during this time was the Glass-Steagall Act, which separated commercial and investment banking and aimed to prevent another stock market crash. Today we are joined by Neil Maher, a history professor at NJIT and author. He’s written multiple books but his book, Nature's New Deal: The Civilian Conservation Corps and the Roots of the American Environmental Movement is the focus of our discussion today.  Some of the other programs we discuss include: Works Progress Administration (WPA) Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) The FDIC The Social Security Administration (SSA) Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) National Industrial Recovery Act (NIRA) Public Works Administration (PWA) The Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA)   That is a lot of letters and acronyms that Jeananne will get into!   Always more to learn...see you on the other side.   Jimmy & Jean  

Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) was the longest sitting President of the United States. His Presidency was full of challenges, ranging from The Great Depression, up through most of World War II.  Our coverage of FDR will span a number of podcasts, and we summarize his presidency in two parts plus another sandwiched in the middle specific to "The New Deal" Roosevelt will be prominent in the podcasts after that as we will be getting into the details surrounding WWII and delve into many of the events.   In the next few podcasts we have some guests. This podcast has Jeananne being joined by Jeffery Urbin of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.    There is always more to learn, talk to you soon! Jimmy & Jean